Clusters with multiplicities in \(\mathbb R^2\) (Q2496566)

The author considers clusters of \(m\) immiscible fluids \(f_i\), \(i=1,2,\dots,m\), in Euclidean space and in a Riemannian manifold. The fluids are allowed to occur with multiplicity and to overlap. Such a cluster is modeled by an \((n-1)\)-dimensional flat chain with coefficients in the free abelian group \(G\) with generators \(f_i\). The technical definitions are given in the second section of the paper. The first main result is a regularity theorem which states that, for appropriate norms, a planar minimizer with finite boundary and prescribed areas consists of finitely many constant-curvature arcs. The second main result is a lemma that generalizes the notion of a calibration from the case of real coefficients to that of coefficients over any complete normed group. The third main result is a regularity theorem that applies to planar double bubbles. This theorem characterizes the manner in which the constant-curvature arcs can meet. Those possibilities are as follows: (1) in threes at 120 degree angles forming the singularity generally known as a Y; (2) in fours either as two arcs tangent or crossing at an angle less than 60 degrees, or as a Y with one of the arms of the Y extending across the singularity; (3) in fives as a Y with two arms of the Y extending across the singularity; and (4) in sixes as a Y with all three arms of the Y extending across the singularity.